The highly anticipated trial surrounding the 2016 heist of reality star Kim Kardashian commenced recently in Paris. Armed robbers had tied Kardashian up in her hotel suite during her stay at a luxury residence, making away with approximately $10 million in jewelry.

The Accused

Ten individuals—comprising nine men and one woman—are facing charges of robbery and kidnapping in connection with the incident. While two suspects have admitted their involvement, the others have denied any participation in the crime.

Kim Kardashian, in Paris for Fashion Week at the time, was threatened by men dressed as police officers who held her at gunpoint. Notably, the stolen items included a diamond ring valued at $4 million, a gift from her then-husband Kanye West.

Kardashian’s Expected Testimony

Kardashian is expected to testify in person, with her appearance scheduled for May 13, while the trial itself is set to span until May 23. Her legal team has emphasized her respect for the French justice system, indicating that she will reserve her testimony specifically for the court.

A Profile of the Defendants

The media has dubbed the defendants “The Granddad Robbers,” as many of the accused are in their 60s and 70s and have extensive criminal backgrounds. Two of the suspects have linked DNA evidence to the crime scene and have admitted to participation.

Aomar Ait Khedache, known as “Old Omar,” is identified as the alleged mastermind. Despite his claim of ignorance regarding Kardashian’s identity, he acknowledged having learned from a waiter about her jewelry while dining out in Paris.

The Crime and Its Aftermath

During the heist, armed perpetrators reportedly demanded to be directed to “the rapper’s wife” while holding a guard at gunpoint. Following the robbery, Khedache conveyed an apology to Kardashian in 2017 after learning of her suffering from the ordeal.

Yunice Abbas, another defendant, openly admitted to being a lookout during the heist. He plans to express remorse during the trial and has indicated his intention to provide insight into his actions without implicating others.

Current Developments

Only one item, a diamond cross pendant, has been recovered since the robbery. The remaining suspects are accused of having facilitated Kardashian’s targeting, as well as reselling the stolen jewelry in Antwerp, Belgium.

The suspects are slated to stand trial by jury, a legal process reserved for the most severe crimes in France, underscoring the gravity of their alleged offenses.